[Ottawa]

Going back a couple of pages, the plan is posted for the six lane expansion

http://www.gnb.ca/0113/projects/projects-e.asp

[mylesmalley]

Seems to me they'd have a lot more luck fixing traffic by improving the interchanges along the route, rather than just adding more lanes.

[thefishingnut]

"Our town centre is the Rothesay Common, it has been for decades and it will continue to be," honestly, how many people go to the commons, just for the bountiful shopping and to see the wonderful destination that it is? don't get me wrong, the commons is a nice place, but does it feel like a true center for the community?

If your idea of a community center is based on shopping, shouldn't you be living downtown or near McAllister?

I'm not too familiar with how the commons is used, but as a Gondola Point resident I think the Arts and Culture Park is really the kind of thing he has in mind. Free outdoor concerts Wednesday, free outdoor kids movies Friday, free outdoor adult movies Saturday. Free skating all winter. Meenans Cove Canada Day. Dragon Boat festival. Jazz festival. Those are KV family type activities, frankly I doubt a big portion of the population thinks lack of shopping opportunities are important to their lifestyle.

This is overall an interesting area, because downtown Saint John, KV, Grand Bay, Kingston Peninsula, you can chose where to live based on lifestyle and not be very far away from everything else. No need to create a downtown KV, Saint John already has one that can be used by everyone.

My personal thumbs down to the idea, I think it would fail.

[dhottawa729]

Seems to me they'd have a lot more luck fixing traffic by improving the interchanges along the route, rather than just adding more lanes.

...or tackle the problem directly - reduce the number of vehicles on the road via transit.

[mylesmalley]

...or tackle the problem directly - reduce the number of vehicles on the road via transit.

Excuse my sarcasm, but yeah, I'm sure they'll get right on that.

[JHikka]

Can suburbs have a city centre?:sly:

[mylesmalley]

Can suburbs have a city centre?:sly:

Dieppe is certainly trying.

[dhottawa729]

Can suburbs have a city centre?:sly:

Of course! These are popping up in suburbs all over North America as municipalities recognize the need for sustainable, mixed-use development. Let's think outside the box here! Something this size up near the highway would be GREAT for KV and wouldn't negatively impact the quality of life of the residents, but could potentially improve it. :yes:

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e173/fla_tiger/NO-E/plaza051807.jpg?t=1248980813
source: http://nolareport.com/2007/10/major-mixed-use-development-in-new.html

[MonctonRad]

:previous:

Think Dartmouth Crossing :)

[Wrightguy0]

so I hear Rocca is going to break ground on harborfront soon :)

[JHikka]

so I hear Rocca is going to break ground on harborfront soon :)

Oh, really?

[Helladog]

Oh, really?

The TJ said it was going to happen this month.

[kwajo]

The TJ said it was going to happen this month.
And we all know how accurate the TJ is...

[mylesmalley]

There was certainly no sign of construction there this afternoon.

[kwajo]

For anyone interested, Bing Maps (formerly Microsoft Maps Live) has added Birds-Eye aerial photos for the Saint John area. It looks like they were taken at some point last Summer, and some of them are really fantastic, I recommend everyone go check them out.

[dhottawa729]

Transportation Municipalities can get more routes if they want, but must subsidize service

MARY-ELLEN SAUNDERS
TELEGRAPH-JOURNAL

QUISPAMSIS - A former Quispamsis resident wants to see transit in the Kennebecasis Valley transformed.

David Hook, an engineer who now lives in Ottawa, has written to the Town of Rothesay suggesting the towns of Rothesay and Quispamsis invest in more transit routes to help stimulate economic and population growth.

"My goal is to make the valley a more pedestrian-friendly place, to get vehicles off the road and to start to do better things for the environment," Hook said. "Growing up in Quispamsis, I always found it difficult to get around, especially if my parents had the car. I would have to bug someone to drive me or bike long distances."

The Comex express system, operated by Saint John Transit, makes six stops in the Kennebecasis Valley to pick up residents and take them directly to the city.

Frank McCarey, general manager of Saint John Transit, said the Comex service has been successful since it began in 2007. He said about 150 people take the bus from the valley to Saint John each day.

Hook would like the towns to invest in several routes on which buses could pick people up and take them to the town centre so residents could catch the Comex bus without having to drive to a pickup location and also so residents could get around the valley without the use of a vehicle.

He submitted a possible bus route map to the town that includes routes travelling from Ritchie Lake, Highland Drive, Vincent Road, Sherwood Park, Parkside Drive and French Village to a central area near the Mackay highway.

"This proposal would reduce congestion on the Mackay Highway and postpone the need for widening the highway to six lanes for many years," Hook said. "This is where the tax dollars should be spent."

Hook said his plan would enhance the existing Comex service by making it available to more residents.

"This service could make various areas within the valley more accessible to residents, increase commerce and reduce the number of vehicles on the road," Hook said. "It could allow many families to reduce the number of vehicles they own from two to one."

McCarey said the express service met the expectations Saint John Transit had set for three years' time in the first six to seven months of its operation.

He said the popular trips are at capacity, which is why larger, bendable buses that will seat 60 people will arrive late this month or early September.

As for Hook's suggestion that buses could take residents from outside areas to a central location where passengers could get on the express bus to Saint John, McCarey said that like all bus routes, it would have to be subsidized. He said Saint John Transit will offer any service municipalities want if the areas are willing to subsidize the costs.

"People make their own choices as to how they want to travel. If they move to the valley, they may have to own two or three cars, but if there is a transit system they may not have to buy as many cars," McCarey said.

"It is up to communities how they want to provide access. Do they want a bus service or do they want to construct more highways and roads?"

Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop said he does not expect to have any more bus stops in the Town of Rothesay.

"It's not on the agenda in the foreseeable future," Bishop said.

Quispamsis Mayor Murray Driscoll said right now Saint John Transit has decided which areas are the best pickup spots and those are the ones that exist. He said as the town grows, it will continue to look at its transit needs.

"It's grown already. We came from no transit system to a transit system and it's increasingly being used more and more," Driscoll said.

"We are growing all the time and I hope this system continues to grow because it stops people from taking cars and saves on costs."

The town is planning to have the express bus pick up passengers on Vincent Road in 2010 to provide transportation to and from the Q-Plex, which is set to open next year.

[Ottawa]

http://www.cwa7304.net/images/D60LF%27s%20stuck%20OCTranspo2.jpg
A little bit of snow with the articulated buses and watch the fun....

Better keep them off the hills in SJ.

[mylesmalley]

The boys at Top Gear did some insightful research into the more common bus styles in use today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYqf6T7XFog

[Helladog]

Hey SJ...5% unemployment is good anytime, let alone during a recession (CTV).

Even Halifax was 6%....something to think about....

I'm staying here, though I may be commuting soon...hope all is well with you all and and am looking forward to Harbourfront Residences new tower crane in 2010!

[Helladog]

I have a thought about the Harbour Bridge with consideration to some ramble on the TJ about the past. Who believes in a world like this that the Harbour Bridge was ever a mistake? Just go to the boardwalk and wonder what SJ would be without it. This isn't Halifax with it's Africville....but Saint John with a bit of movement to make way for a controlled highway which wouldn't happen today at the present pace. Thank God for the One Mile Interchange and it's improvements, while maintaining current residents while the [city] of Rothesay lures them away. I like the current highway with or without three lanes.

Did I mention that I think the KV should amalgamate and become Rothesay (not Kennebecesasis City)...?

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

I agree, except for on thing, but instead of calling it Rothesay (much better than KV), I think the old Cormier Report should be revised and all of the suburbs should be gobbled up by Saint John, which we all know what will eventually happen anyway, sometime in the future.

I was very disappointed when the previous Liberal government went back on their words. They said they were going to implement the Cormier Report come hell-or-high-water. But, in an election year politician will do what ever they have to to stay in power. The little buggers lost anyway, big time and it looked good on them!

In the meantime, the TJ is reporting that the Mariot chain is looking at coming to Saint John at Peel Plaza. In that case, I can see a new high-rise! Hopefully, this will happen soon?

Here's the TJ report:


"One of the main driving forces behind the Peel Plaza scheme was the idea that new public facilities - courthouses, police headquarters, parking garage and park - would attract more outside investment in the city centre. Councillor Peter McGuire said at a recent council session that he'd heard a major hotel was interested in building near the Peel Plaza site on Union Street. Most plugged-in people are saying it's Marriott Hotels and Resorts, which already has several locations throughout Atlantic Canada. Contacted this week, Jeff Flaherty of Marriott's public relations in Maryland did not confirm or deny those reports. "Marriott has no definitive plans for developing a hotel in Saint John, New Brunswick," he wrote in an email. "However, we have identified it as a market in which we would like to be."

[Helladog]

I hope Lepreau 2 is announced soon to justify more development, though things are putting right along anyway with or without the refinery...it would help. The Mariott could build atop the garage...perfect to bring the costs down for Peel Plaza.

Council needs to make decisions now...one way or the other. Pay attention. Who on council has made a decision and stuck to it. Election time is coming and the fence sitters have to go.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

I hope Lepreau 2 is announced soon to justify more development, though things are putting right along anyway with or without the refinery...it would help. The Mariott could build atop the garage...perfect to bring the costs down for Peel Plaza.

Council needs to make decisions now...one way or the other. Pay attention. Who on council has made a decision and stuck to it. Election time is coming and the fence sitters have to go.

I agree... building atop the parking garage would be great for Mariot and the city. It would also provide for a taller building, something that I think SJ needs. After all, I don't have the nickname, 'Wolkenratzerliebhaber' for nothing (German for skyscraper lover.)

I also agree with council having to make decisions that they are going to stick with. What developer wants to come to a city with such a wishy-washy civic government? No one thats who.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Apparently, Marriot isn't the only one interested in developing in the Peel Plaza location, according to this article in the TJ http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/757893.

Several developers have proposed building on top of the garage. Plans range from adding three to seven stories, possibly making the project a total of 15 floors!

Apparently too, they are interested in the surrounding area, and not only in the area of the garage. According to the article, the cancelation of the Elder Rock refinery(if you ask me, the postponement) has done little to kill interest in developing the area.

Who knows, maybe fellow poster, J. Rocca has some cool ideas for redeveloping the area and will let us know shortly? I hope so, and best of luck to any developer interested in developing here. I hope they do, and they do it as quickly as possible.

[dhottawa729]

Apparently, Marriot isn't the only one interested in developing in the Peel Plaza location, according to this article in the TJ http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.c...article/757893...

I hope that if whoever decides to build there plans to add something of significance to the skyline that they incorporate some modern architectural flare such as glass and curves. There's nothing interesting about a box. Peel Plaza will very visible from the highway, so it's important for it to look good. Saint John needs some more modern iconic structures but must take care in properly blending with some of the older architectural gems that are still standing today. Also, the City has a great tiered and nicely-shaped skyline when viewed from the harbour, so I think it would be very suiting to have a tall building there. Get those potential condo owners up and above the fog!

[SJResident]

[QUOTE=dhottawa729;4402069]ISaint John needs some more modern iconic structures but must take care in properly blending with some of the older architectural gems that are still standing today. Also, the City has a great tiered and nicely-shaped skyline when viewed from the harbour, so I think it would be very suiting to have a tall building there. [QUOTE]

I couldn't agree more. I love the way London, England has a blend of old and new/modern. It creates an interesting skyline and shows the resilience of the city and its people. I find it also makes the historic buildings more pronounced.

[michael_d40]

Couple pieces of Retail info I thought I'd pass along....

Shopping Center Pros In Town
The city will be a shopping Mecca of sorts over the next couple of days -- delegates from both sides of the border are attending the annual Atlantic conference of the International Council of Shopping Centers underway at the Trade and Convention Center. Provincial director John Johnston of Eastpoint Shopping says the energy hub concept and the city's emergence as a retail destination is catching the attention of national retailers and shopping center professionals. Some of the sessions will deal with the impact of effective branding -- understanding the retail site selection and approval process -- as well as -- urbanization and waterfront redevelopment happening in the region.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Best Buy Eyes Saint John Market
Major retailers continue to eye Saint John for expansion even though the eight billion dollar Irving second refinery proposal has been shelved. Geoff Stollery of electronics giant Best Buy tells CHSJ News his company is considering a new outlet for our city within the next two years -- he says they don't make decisions based on what's going to happen in the next six months. Stollery says it's a ten year commitment and he sees momentum here in the city's retail market. Best Buy owns the Future Shop chain -- and -- Stollery says if the plan goes ahead it will include a new and expanded Future Shop outlet in the immediate vicinity of the Best Buy store.
Posted by CHSJ News at 2:49 PM

Looks like 3 Best Buys for New Brunswick.. Nifty

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Couple pieces of Retail info I thought I'd pass along....


Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Best Buy Eyes Saint John Market
Major retailers continue to eye Saint John for expansion even though the eight billion dollar Irving second refinery proposal has been shelved. Geoff Stollery of electronics giant Best Buy tells CHSJ News his company is considering a new outlet for our city within the next two years -- he says they don't make decisions based on what's going to happen in the next six months. Stollery says it's a ten year commitment and he sees momentum here in the city's retail market. Best Buy owns the Future Shop chain -- and -- Stollery says if the plan goes ahead it will include a new and expanded Future Shop outlet in the immediate vicinity of the Best Buy store.
Posted by CHSJ News at 2:49 PM

Looks like 3 Best Buys for New Brunswick.. Nifty

Wow, that is great news... I love to see a Best Buy here in town! As disappointed as I was that the refinery has been cancelled (postponed), the energy hub is far from dead and from what I have been hearing, Saint John is a city on the go, so I'm eagerly waiting to hear of even more good news for the city in the coming months.

[JRocca]

Apparently, Marriot isn't the only one interested in developing in the Peel Plaza location, according to this article in the TJ http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/757893.

Several developers have proposed building on top of the garage. Plans range from adding three to seven stories, possibly making the project a total of 15 floors!

Apparently too, they are interested in the surrounding area, and not only in the area of the garage. According to the article, the cancelation of the Elder Rock refinery(if you ask me, the postponement) has done little to kill interest in developing the area.

Who knows, maybe fellow poster, J. Rocca has some cool ideas for redeveloping the area and will let us know shortly? I hope so, and best of luck to any developer interested in developing here. I hope they do, and they do it as quickly as possible.

I'm sure you appreciate that some things I cannot share for a time.I can tell you that we are not involved in exploring opportunites around the Peel Plaza area.I think I know one of the developers they are referring to in the article but I cannot share the information.
I know people are interested in knowing what's happening but I think disclosures of expressions of interest are necessary when the project is a high profile one like Peel plaza but it's not helpful because it creates epxectations.As we have seen with the refinary, it's a long road between an expression of interest and a viable concept.
Speaking of the refinary,I would like to share your optimism on it getting back on the rails but all evidence points to a long term reduction in consumption of oil and a shift to alternate energy sources[eg electric cars].
having said this, the success of our energy hub concept depends more on what happens with our partnership with Maine in creating an energy corrdor to carry our electricity down to New York.It's electricity not oil that will drive the energy hub and our challenge is work with maine to make sure the transmission lines are beefed up to carry our power.

[Joe]

Some news on the coast guard site

Behind The Scenes Work Continues On Coast Guard Site
August 13, 2009 - 6:04 am
By: Denise Barkhouse News 88.9 Staff






SAINT JOHN, NB - As Ottawa and the city try to hammer out a deal on the Canadian Coast Guard site, the company planning to put a 75-million dollar development on the land is busy working behind the scenes.

The Hardman Group's Vice President Colin Whitcomb says, "The company is focusing on what the development site costs will be."

The Hardman Group plans to start marketing the condos that will be attached to a hotel next year, with the other phases to follow.

The Hardman Group will make a presentation to delegates attending the International Council of Shopping Centres conference later today.

[Helladog]

Finally, the Abbey may be going ahead soon...:tup:

Abbey project construction (might begin next month)

Published Thursday August 13th, 2009
John Chilibeck
Telegraph-Journal

SAINT JOHN - Peter Jollymore is going to breathe a huge sigh of relief when machines start digging on the big parking lot on the corner of Charlotte and Duke streets uptown.

The spokesman for Abbey St. Andrew Inc. has watched impatiently over the several months as delays hampered the non-profit, $10-million housing project.

"I found it frustrating how long it seems to take to get through each of the stages on this thing," Jollymore said Wednesday. "But I haven't been able to find any magic answers to turn the wheels of bureaucracy any faster," he added, with a laugh.

The latest gum-up is the project's application to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for mortgage insurance. Jollymore had expected to hear back from officials with the corporation by the end of July, but the file is still in CMHC's hands.

Jollymore said once the mortgage insurance is approved, the group behind the project must talk to its bank and the province's NB Housing to finalize plans, something that could take a week or two.

He hopes excavation at the site could start in September, with the project completed within 12 to 14 months. Tenants could be in the new 55 subsidized units and 41 market units by Christmas 2010.

If CMHC rejects the application, Jollymore said plans would have to be scaled back or more money would have to be raised.

There have been a number of delays already, largely around financing. In June, Ottawa and the province stepped in to help the church-led idea become a reality, putting an extra $550,000 into the project.

The group, led by the Church of St. Andrew and St. David, whose beautiful old church will front one side of the development on Germain Street, also had to scramble to satisfy the city's demands that the development would provide enough parking. There's already a shortage of on-street parking in the area because there are few driveways and many of the buildings are connected in long, sweeping streetscapes.

The heritage-style subsidized housing would include one-bedroom units that would rent for about $825 a month, including heat and hot water, which the group believes is a fair price based on the housing surveys it has conducted.

There are about 15 people on a register for the market-based units but the group hasn't formalized or promised anyone anything, pending approval.

"We can't guarantee the rent level or the layouts," Jollymore explained. "It's contingent on getting the approval (from CMHC)."

NB Housing, Jollymore has been told, has a steady list of 300 people waiting for subsidized apartments, so there's no concern the group won't be able to fill all of the subsidized units.

[Coyett]

Does anyone have info on the status of the New Brunswick Museum expansion project?

http://books.google.com/books?id=nomkxisFN3IC&lpg=PA276&ots=6K39n4Z-aJ&dq=DIAMOND%20%2B%20SCHMITT%20saint%20john%20nb&pg=PA276#v=onepage&q=&f=false

[kwajo]

Does anyone have info on the status of the New Brunswick Museum expansion project?

http://books.google.com/books?id=nomkxisFN3IC&lpg=PA276&ots=6K39n4Z-aJ&dq=DIAMOND%20%2B%20SCHMITT%20saint%20john%20nb&pg=PA276#v=onepage&q=&f=false
It'll never get built

[Helladog]

The crane is baq....


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/Photo_081709_003b.jpg

[Fischbob]

Want increased densities? Better speak up.

'Once-in-a-generation opportunity'
Planning - Ken Forrest is ready to take Saint John's municipal plan to the next level

Published Monday August 17th, 2009
Reid Southwick
Telegraph-Journal

SAINT JOHN - Ken Forrest's 10th-floor office at City Hall overlooks the grid of largely low-rise commercial buildings along Prince William and Water streets that run parallel to the port.

Developers and politicians have often argued the uptown area could attract more investment and more people with high-rise buildings, a controversial proposal that would change the skyline of the commercial district.

Sitting in his corner office, Forrest, the city's top planner, said the concentration and size of buildings in the uptown area, along with residential and commercial properties across the city, could change after the city drafts a new municipal plan.

In front of him was a map of land-use zones in the city, a new tool that is now online and shows a hodgepodge of commercial, residential, institutional and industrial land uses.

"I would anticipate that the map could end up looking quite a bit different," said Forrest, commissioner of planning and development. "In the end, a lot of that is going to be determined by the public because they are going to have thoughts on how they want to distribute housing stock, commercial areas; what kind of densities do we want to achieve?"

The planning department recently received bids from six firms that want to be the top consultant in redrafting the municipal plan, which will essentially lay out a new blueprint for development in the city.

The job is so ambitious, it requires the expertise of external consultants and will likely take several years to finish.

The last time the plan was completely rewritten was in 1973. The majority of its sections have been revised and new chapters added over the years, but the city is preparing for a bigger overhaul.

Forrest expects to file a recommendation with council within the next six weeks on which company the lead consultant should be. After that, planning staff and the consultant will draft a work plan that will lay out the consultant's responsibilities over the next two or three years.

Forrest wanted to wait until the city had selected the consultant before drawing up the work plan because he wanted some new ideas from other top minds in the industry on how the city can approach the big job.

That's because the new municipal plan will set the stage for housing and business growth over the next 20 to 30 years. Residents may want higher density housing - a greater number of buildings in a geographic area - which is said to attract more people and investment, and also demand a more robust public transportation system.

"Do we want higher density, transit-oriented, pedestrian-oriented development, or do we want lower density, suburban style development? These are all decisions the community needs to make," Forrest said. "And what is our policy on parkland? Do we want individual neighbourhood parks or larger community facilities with more infrastructure that is more centrally located?"

Forrest expects the city's consultant will have some good ideas on engaging the public to make sure the new municipal plan reflects what the public wants. He said he expects the first round of public consultations will begin in the fall or early winter.

"We're trying to get away from the standard where someone stands at the front of a room; we're trying to find some interesting ways to get people involved," Forrest said. "This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity in Saint John. We don't do municipal plans every day, so it's a good opportunity to try and connect with people."

Those comments may offer some comfort for people who are deeply concerned about preserving the look and feel of their city.

Rezoning applications are often met with much opposition and recent proposals to develop land near Rockwood Park were no exception.

Several people who live in the Sandy Point Road area were concerned the proposals for townhouses and condominiums on land adjacent to the park would set a precedent for future development on or near park property.

Council ultimately approved a moratorium on development adjacent to the park until the new municipal plan is finished, but not everyone on council or in the Millidgeville community wants the moratorium to stay.

City planning is largely a controversial exercise and Forrest expects similar conflicts will emerge in other areas of the city as the city redrafts its municipal plan.

"You will never have total consensus on these things," Forrest said. "You will have a diversity of viewpoints and, in the end, you try to create something that has a reasonable chance of happening but is also setting the community on a more sustainable path."

http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/762655

[Helladog]

Want increased densities? Better speak up.



http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/762655

Could form a group....:yes:

[kwajo]

Could form a group....:yes:
Could be a good idea given the timing with the municipal plan being re-drafted.

[michael_d40]

Anybody have any idea what the heck they are building at Simms corner, Its a small building and has lots of windows... But no signs saying what it could possibly be? Strange indeed...

[Southpaw78]

Anybody have any idea what the heck they are building at Simms corner, Its a small building and has lots of windows... But no signs saying what it could possibly be? Strange indeed...

I heard somewhere it was going to be a Starbucks...Seems like an odd location for one though. At least until they get Simms Corner realigned.

[dhottawa729]

Apparently, Marriot isn't the only one interested in developing in the Peel Plaza location, according to this article in the TJ http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/757893.

Several developers have proposed building on top of the garage. Plans range from adding three to seven stories, possibly making the project a total of 15 floors!

Apparently too, they are interested in the surrounding area, and not only in the area of the garage. According to the article, the cancelation of the Elder Rock refinery(if you ask me, the postponement) has done little to kill interest in developing the area.

Who knows, maybe fellow poster, J. Rocca has some cool ideas for redeveloping the area and will let us know shortly? I hope so, and best of luck to any developer interested in developing here. I hope they do, and they do it as quickly as possible.

I was just playing around in Photoshop to get an idea of how a 15-storey parking garage/commercial building would alter the skyline. It doesn't add too much, but it does make the other buildings in the background look taller by hiding the hillside.

http://g7upua.blu.livefilestore.com/y1pDPViFqeHcP3R7-3h_4pNwRr321BouPRugJGeiKrjifI3CoAwD8gsNpZ2OF1nzq2Kh0Hdr_N7s3WRoGz7LhcTBRqrhLazvq7r/peel%20plaza%20garage.jpg

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

I was just playing around in Photoshop to get an idea of how a 15-storey parking garage/commercial building would alter the skyline. It doesn't add too much, but it does make the other buildings in the background look taller by hiding the hillside.

http://g7upua.blu.livefilestore.com/y1pDPViFqeHcP3R7-3h_4pNwRr321BouPRugJGeiKrjifI3CoAwD8gsNpZ2OF1nzq2Kh0Hdr_N7s3WRoGz7LhcTBRqrhLazvq7r/peel%20plaza%20garage.jpg


Nicely rendered , dhottawa. Somehow, however, I think that any hotel will be a much longer looking blg, covering the whole top of the garage, rather than just the short boxy blg. as you have rendered. Most likely, it could look more like the new Chateau Saint John?

As Rocca says, its just a proposal at this stage, but, hopefully, something more of it will come out of it, and soon?

[Helladog]

Nicely rendered , dhottawa. Somehow, however, I think that any hotel will be a much longer looking blg, covering the whole top of the garage, rather than just the short boxy blg. as you have rendered. Most likely, it could look more like the new Chateau Saint John?

As Rocca says, its just a proposal at this stage, but, hopefully, something more of it will come out of it, and soon?

If anything is put on top of the garage, the design would have to be changed to support the extra weight, so a minimum of two extra stories would need to be added just for maintaining the same number of spaces with the extra support added. With a hotel, possibly two extra stories of parking would be needed as well. If this is a serious consideration, someone needs to get working on the redesign and cost estimates for a bigger garage.

[michael_d40]

Hey guys, I just found out today my paperwork went through for a townhouse on top of Fort Howe. So if they ever get that damn Justice complex going be prepared for ALOT of pics, or maybe even a 24 hour cam on the location from my home office window :)

[thebrad]

Interesting find today! I saw this posted on Career Beacon...


Lead Canada's Original City

City Manager

In Saint John, New Brunswick, you will find a rich heritage, a thriving port city, the charm of a tourist town, the arts, culture and amenities of a metropolis plus the nicest people in the country. You will also find a forward-thinking municipal government that has set its sights on leading the nation as an example of a sustainable community. Saint John is experiencing strong economic growth and according to MacLeans Magazine is Canada’s eighth best managed city.

As the City Manager, lead, direct and manage the delivery of sustainable, cost-effective services and programs that are responsive to the needs of the city's 70,000 citizens. Directed by and accountable to Common Council, manage a team of committed and dedicated public servants and work cooperatively with a range of agencies, commissions and committees. Steward the City's $160+ million operating, water and sewage budget. Consult and communicate with citizens and community groups. Work in collaboration with stakeholders in the community and provincial and federal government departments. Set the example for responsible, accountable administration and public service.

A proven leader in a complex organization, you bring strategic vision, management acumen, and excellent communication and relationship skills to the City Manager role. You are comfortable working within a highly visible, publicly accountable context and managing significant financial and human resources. Persuasive and courageous, you are a role model who guides your team by setting clear goals and effectively holding others accountable. You collaborate naturally and have proven results working with multiple levels of government.

[JHikka]

Canaport:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/3846036068_ee313c30bf_b.jpg

Uptown:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2620/3846045364_a53f7a39cb_b.jpg

Courtenay Bay:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3451/3845253087_b535961f71_b.jpg

All photos by me, taken on August 9th, 2009

More here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/greghickman/).

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Canaport:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2540/3846036068_ee313c30bf_b.jpg

Uptown:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2620/3846045364_a53f7a39cb_b.jpg

Courtenay Bay:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3451/3845253087_b535961f71_b.jpg

All photos by me, taken on August 9th, 2009

More here (http://www.flickr.com/photos/greghickman/).

Very nice pics, and from a perpective rarely seen.

[Joe]

The Rocca condos will fill in the area nicely. I thought they were supposed to be started by now.

[Helladog]

Hey guys, I just found out today my paperwork went through for a townhouse on top of Fort Howe. So if they ever get that damn Justice complex going be prepared for ALOT of pics, or maybe even a 24 hour cam on the location from my home office window :)

Housewarming party??? :tup:

[michael_d40]

Housewarming party??? :tup:

haha of course, you guys bring the liquor, I supply the pimp location!

[thebrad]

So what's the deal with the double decker bus doing city routes?

[Helladog]

So what's the deal with the double decker bus doing city routes?

Is that the articulated bus? Never saw them out yet...prolly testing them out. The comex buses are often used for city routes too.

[Helladog]

I see our fourth Starbucks is going to be in Brunswick Square, at the old music store. They have a sign up and renos are underway.

[JHikka]

I see our fourth Starbucks is going to be in Brunswick Square, at the old music store. They have a sign up and renos are underway.

Oh my goodness. :shrug:

[michael_d40]

I seen the new double decker buses today. They are pretty cool looking. I took a picture of it with my blackberry today, but have no idea how to upload pics to this thread. Helladog, can u pm me your email and I will send it to you?
thanks :)

[Helladog]

I seen the new double decker buses today. They are pretty cool looking. I took a picture of it with my blackberry today, but have no idea how to upload pics to this thread. Helladog, can u pm me your email and I will send it to you?
thanks :)

Done. I know they're just buses :haha: but I want to see them for myself.

[Helladog]

Here's michael_d40's photo of the double-decker...I thought everyone was talking about the acordian style buses. Are they testing these out or did they buy them?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/IMG00218-20090827-1854.jpg
Photo: michael_d40

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Here's michael_d40's photo of the double-decker...I thought everyone was talking about the acordian style buses. Are they testing these out or did they buy them?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/IMG00218-20090827-1854.jpg
Photo: michael_d40

I like em both, and I kind of hope they use both of them!

[Joe]

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=355165&size=500x0

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=355233&size=500x0

SAINT JOHN - For Colin Whitcomb, the cancellation of the second oil refinery project is a mixed blessing.

As the executive vice-president of Hardman Group, the big property firm that signed an agreement four years ago with the city to redevelop the Coast Guard site, he would have been happy to market waterfront condominiums to people employed either directly or indirectly by the estimated $8-billion megaproject.

The new refinery would have created more than 1,000 permanent new jobs, many of them for highly trained and well-paid employees.

But he said the project's mothballing wouldn't stop the Coast Guard redevelopment from going ahead. The first phase of the Hardman scheme includes 40 to 60 high-end condominiums.

"It certainly doesn't kill it," Whitcomb insisted this week. "Maybe it means we have to revisit the whole question on the size of units and pricing, et cetera. But we were very cautious from the beginning and had a lot of discussions with the waterfront development people on the timing and coming to market. It would have been disappointing if we'd come to market, say, in May or June of this year, started marketing the condominiums on the assumption the second refinery was coming and then finding out that 'aw gee, it's not coming,' and you're out there with a project and a pricing and a whole plan predicated on a large project in the community that doesn't happen, and it takes the winds out of your sails. Now we don't have to worry about that."

The second oil refinery hadn't even been announced when Hardman was selected in a competition as the winning firm.

"We still view Saint John as a fairly stable market. When we first envisioned the project back in 2005 the second refinery wasn't really a component of all of our planning, acquiring the site and our thinking."

For people who are impatient for the prime waterfront site to become something more than a fenced-off government property, Whitcomb said it was no different for him.

"If someone said in 2005 that in 2009 we'd still be working at this, yeah, I'd be surprised. But when I look back in hindsight, I can understand why it's taken this long. My sense is, talking to people with the city and the federal government, that they are close to getting the deal done. We are still optimistic about the project and we're still committed. I just cross my fingers that it's over the finish line before the end of this year."

Michael Baldwin, outgoing general manager of Saint John Waterfront Development (formerly the Saint John Development Corporation), said the city's negotiations with the federal government are nearing an end and an announcement would be made shortly.

"I'd like to give a specific date but it's a complicated task," Baldwin said. "It's a Coast Guard base, it's been operating for many years and there's a lot of different pieces to it. The good news is we certainly are the closest we've ever been and we're working on the final due diligence pieces. Ideally, you'd like to have all the i's dotted and whatnot by the end of 2009. Could that go out into 2010? Sure. But that's sort of the time frame we're looking at to get any outstanding items finalized."

Asked if the Coast Guard redevelopment could be further delayed for political considerations - politicians sometimes wait until election time to make announcements and generate publicity - Baldwin staved off the question.

"I can't even speak to that. What we're focused on right now is the nuts and bolts of getting it done," added Baldwin, who announced this week that he will be leaving his job for a different career opportunity in Fredericton at the end of September.

The deal has taken a long time because the three parties involved - the city, the federal government and Hardman - are trying to sort out how much the property is worth. The city also hired Colliers, the international real estate firm, to help evaluate the site.

"With that work done, a baseline price has been established," Whitcomb said. "The city and the development corporation know what they're going to get when they buy it. I believe a price has been established and my understanding is they are working out a purchase and sale agreement on the property right now."

Hardman, which also runs Market Square just across Market Slip from the site, has already done environmental testing for hydrocarbon contamination and geo-technical testing on bedrock to get a better idea of development costs. The city has studied the state of the seawall, close to where underground parking would go. According to Hardman, it needs substantial work.

These are just some of the considerations that will affect the sale price. The city set aside more than $3 million to purchase the property from Ottawa, which it will eventually sell to Hardman. The plan right now, Whitcomb said, was for Ottawa to sell the city the land in phases.

"We anticipate the city will sell it to us as part of a freehold sale. Hardman will buy it, develop it, and then sell it to a condo corporation. We won't be the permanent, long-term holder. We'll buy it and sell it and eventually the condominium corporation has title to the whole thing."

The first phase, which could be announced in the coming months, would include the construction of a 130-room hotel on the northern part of the property. A hotel partner is lined up, but Whitcomb won't disclose who it is.

The piece of real estate is where the Coast Guard still lands its helicopter from time to time, stores buoys and has a workshop for maintenance of the buoys. All these objects would be cleared out. For the most part, the pad is a large empty apron.

The rest of the land would be transferred to Hardman at a later date. The Coast Guard still uses two buildings for administrative work, and Whitcomb said the intention is to keep those people working at the location. Hardman would lease the buildings back to Ottawa so they wouldn't be displaced.

Whitcomb said ideally, Hardman would take a year to sell the condos, setting up a marketing centre on-site similar to the one developer John Rocca built at the foot of Water Street. (Rocca intends on announcing the construction start date of Harbourfront at Three Sisters condominiums within a month.)

Once enough condos are sold, the first phase would be built in 2011 by the earliest - three years behind the original schedule.

"The first phase won't change dramatically, but there will be changes as the next phases go ahead, not major ones, but changes, because of market conditions and efficiencies of layout," said Whitcomb, who also added that 200 condos would be built through the four phases.

[JHikka]

Nothing too particularly surprising, although I will be very surprised if they actually go ahead and add the docking that is pictured in Market Slip for small vessels. The largest problem with the harbour is that when people are sailing into Saint John, they have nowhere to go to wait for Reversing Falls to be slack. If people sailing in had somewhere to dock efficiently for a few hours, I hope that it will be Market Slip, but Saint John being Saint John I can see that turning into some sort of large failure.

Overall I like this project, but i'm holding my breath until all of this starts going up.

[Helladog]

So, the first phase is a hotel which is all lined up. Does this mean there is yet another hotel interested in Peel Plaza too?

I'm guessing the Mariott would be the likely tenant for the coast guard site; maybe they're thinking of Peel Plaza if the coast guard site redevelopment fails or is delayed too long.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

So, the first phase is a hotel which is all lined up. Does this mean there is yet another hotel interested in Peel Plaza too?

I'm guessing the Mariott would be the likely tenant for the coast guard site; maybe they're thinking of Peel Plaza if the coast guard site redevelopment fails or is delayed too long.

i have a friend in the construction business and he told me last year that the Coast Guard site hotel was Amsterdam Inn! This could have changed, but I doubt it. I never even heard of Amsterdam Inn before that. I guess there's a small one in Quispamsis, but apart from being a locally owned chain I knew nothing about them at all. I hope Mariott goes-in Peel Plaza on top of the garage. 7 floor hotel on top of the 8 floor garage is better than nothing.

[mylesmalley]

They have locations in Moncton, Fredericton, Quispamsis and Sussex.

[Helladog]

Wow...two more large hotels on the horizon in addition to the 3-4 recent ones.

Here is a pic I snapped at the garage this evening...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/Photo_082909_004b.jpg

[JHikka]

I don't understand why Saint John Transit would need a doubledecker...and aren't there some places that a double-decker can't access around town?

[michael_d40]

I don't understand why Saint John Transit would need a doubledecker...and aren't there some places that a double-decker can't access around town?


Um... Elaborate where you think they couldnt fit? If a transport truck can fit uptown, why couldntg a double decker? Seems like your being negative... So if your dont mind... Do you have any ideas you could tell us where you think this bus or any transport truck couldnt fit? (and please leave out the chipman hill pedway or St Patrick street pedway since we know transport trucks easilly pass under them?) Thanks..

[JHikka]

I'm not trying to be negative at all, I love City Transit, I just don't understand why we need buses for a higher capacity of rider-ship when we have more than enough buses to do that currently.

[PersonPlaceorThing]

I wouldn't be surprised if the Coast Gaurd site sees another Hotel from the Hilton family of brands. This would help the Trade and Convension Centre as an event venue (Hilton manages this space), and the Hilton would benefit from having an overflow hotel.

[michael_d40]

I wouldn't be surprised if the Coast Gaurd site sees another Hotel from the Hilton family of brands. This would help the Trade and Convension Centre as an event venue (Hilton manages this space), and the Hilton would benefit from having an overflow hotel.

Yeah, Thats a good theory PPoT. I stayed at Embassy Suites in Montreal not long ago and they are owned by the Hilton Family, and had condos on top of the hotel... So it does seem like a good theory....

[Helladog]

From the Telegraph Journal:

East side
New subdivision moves closer

Common council moved closer Monday night to rezoning two parcels of land at 1808 Hickey Rd. on the east side to make way for a new subdivision that will include a high rise. Council unanimously approved first and second readings of the bylaw amendment Monday night after hearing from an area resident who is worried the property will be clearcut. "I don't think it's fair for people who have lived there for a number of years that everything should be just cut down and slashed away," said Barbara Burns, who has lived on nearby Grandview Avenue for 49 years. Burns asked the developer leave a buffer of trees between adjoining properties. The developer said the construction will be gradual, with 25 lots developed in the first phase, so clear-cutting shouldn't be a concern. The rezoning converts the property from one- and two-family suburban residential to one- and two -amily residential and high rise residential.

[Helladog]

Q-plex construction
Telegraph Journal

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=356367&size=600
Cindy Wilson/Telegraph-Journal

Work crews pour cement at the site of the new recreation complex in Quispamsis - near the Gondola Point Recreation Centre - known as the Q-Plex.

[Helladog]

Open house on Eider Rock assessment set Sept. 9

Environment Province accepts report on environmental impact of shelved refinery

APRIL ROBINSON
TELEGRAPH-JOURNAL

SAINT JOHN - Irving Oil Ltd. has reached a milestone in the planning process for a second oil refinery - even though the company has shelved the project.

The provincial government has accepted an environmental impact assessment report for the $8-billion project, known as Eider Rock.

Irving Oil announced in July it would not proceed with the massive project because of poor market conditions.

But the company wanted to continue with the environmental impact assessment process to keep its options open to build the refinery sometime in the future, as unlikely as that might be.

Lesley MacLeod, spokeswoman for Irving Oil, said it was also important to gather community input on the proposed refinery. "It's just good to know the expectations for large projects," she said Monday.

The assessment is a key part of any significant building project that could affect the local eco-system and habitat, including that of area residents.

The public is invited to an open house on Sept. 9, where they can learn more about the assessment. Jacques Whitford Stantec Ltd., which prepared the report, and Irving Oil will host the event. It will be from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the New Brunswick Community College campus at 950 Grandview Ave.

"We remain committed to completing the environmental assessment, given the significant progress that has been made over the past two and half years," Kevin Scott, Irving Oil's commercial director of refining growth, said in a release.

The province will also host a formal public meeting on the assessment this fall as part of the environmental impact assessment process.

Irving Oil plans to host a technical workshop to discuss the environmental effects of the proposed refinery in coming weeks. Registration will begin at the Sept. 9 open house.

The public has until Dec. 4 to submit comments, then the province will issue a final decision, which could be valid for a few years, based on its discretion, MacLeod said.

The environmental impact assessment report and associated documents are available for download on the Irving Oil website at www.irvingoil.com/company/erock.asp. CD ROM versions of the documents are also available from Irving Oil upon request by calling 1-888-525-1777 or emailing eiderrock@irvingoil.com.

[Helladog]

Route 111 interchange upgrades being studied

September 01, 2009 - 3:48 pm
By: Todd Veinotte-News 88.9 staff


Rothesay, N.B. - A spokesperson with the Department of Transportation says the groundwork continues for upgrades to the Route 111 interchange in Rothesay.

Kim Mathisen says the department has received a consultant's report which will now by studied, with recommendations to senior management on the way.

Route 111 is off the Mackay Highway.

Mathisen talks about some potential changes.

"There's potential for such things as traffic control devices, additional lanes, signals and additional signs," Mathisen says.

The department has already committed to adding a third lane in both directions from Route 111 to Route 100 near Rothesay Avenue.

[Helladog]

Airport hopeful funding will come from Atlantic Gateway Program

September 01, 2009 - 10:49 am
By: Denise Barkhouse: News 88.9 Staff


SAINT JOHN, NB - Plans to improve infrastructure at the Saint John airport have been put on hold.

It turns out the airport does not qualify for Federal funding through the Building Canada Fund, because it's on government land, but that's not stopping officials at the airport from trying to make it happen.

Saint John Airport Authority President Bernie LeBlanc said there are other ways to round up the cash.

"Even if we are on Federal land, we can qualify for funding under the Atlantic Gateway Program. So from the airport and port's perspective, we are looking at that possibility." said LeBlanc.

He said each province is responsible for putting projects forward, adding many have been submitted.

LeBlanc expects the process, the province will use to choose which projects will be submitted, to begin within the next couple of weeks, and is hopeful the province will put the airport projects forward.

The money is needed to help with terminal renovations, a parking lot expansion and adding more runway lighting.

Saint John airport board Chair, Paul Doiron will join a Southern New Brunswick Gateway Council meeting later today with Minister Peter McKay.

[Ottawa]

Let me be the first to say you're looking very distinguished these days Helladog. :cool:

[Helladog]

Let me be the first to say you're looking very distinguished these days Helladog. :cool:

"Stay thirsty my friends" :haha:

[Helladog]

I was playing with the old microfilmed newspapers at the library (yeah, I live an exciting life...) and in February 1972, there was a pretty large residential development that looks like it almost made it. As seen in the camera phone pic below, this was planned for Millidgeville. It kind of reminds me of the six mid-rise buildings on the east side, but a bit taller and all together.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/SJ%20Proposals/Photo_080709_004b.jpg
Source: Saint John Library / Evening Times Globe

[JHikka]

Kind of looks like Brentwood, but Brentwood would only be one of those buildings.

[Helladog]

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=357757&size=600
Telegraph Journal

[mylesmalley]

Man, the boys at WorkSafe NB would have a field day if they saw workers on top of a 20 story tower with no tethers.

[JHikka]

Man, the boys at WorkSafe NB would have a field day if they saw workers on top of a 20 story tower with no tethers.

Welcome to Saint John.;)

[Helladog]

Man, the boys at WorkSafe NB would have a field day if they saw workers on top of a 20 story tower with no tethers.

I'm pretty sure they all have tethers, it's hard to tell on the guy closest to the camera...which makes me think, where was this pic taken from?

Edit: Ahh, I get it, it's a three cornered corner...

[michael_d40]

I'm pretty sure they all have tethers, it's hard to tell on the guy closest to the camera...which makes me think, where was this pic taken from?

Edit: Ahh, I get it, it's a three cornered corner...

Yeah, I just enlarged the picture, they do all have tethers.....

[michael_d40]

Oh, Was by East Point this morning. Looks like they begun laying the foundation for Costco. Lots of concrete laid, and wont be much longer til steal. Its really starting to move along now!

[Helladog]

Before:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/SJConstruction/20081006-04c.jpg

After:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/Obsceneeyedog/SJConstruction/DSCF0006b-1.jpg

Image credit: Me

[Helladog]

Here's the full photo:

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=357757

Considering the Telegraph Journal is there to take your photo...is your tether on or not....

[mylesmalley]

I don't know, guys... those two up top...

Whatever. It's a moot point.

[Helladog]

I don't know, guys... those two up top...

Whatever. It's a moot point.

Well at least they guy on the right is enjoying a good smoke before plummeting to his certain death.

[michael_d40]

Just noticed in the paper today that they are seeking franchise locations in Saint john for Second Cup. Perhaps you could call them and sway them into a corporately ran location at Harbourfront Residences.

Would bring more "pizazz" to your development and of course long term commercial income :D

[JHikka]

A Second Cup competing with Tim's, Star's and Java Moose? Not to mention the apparent coffee that McDonald's sells?

[michael_d40]

A Second Cup competing with Tim's, Star's and Java Moose? Not to mention the apparent coffee that McDonald's sells?

Thats correct. Because I for one do not drink any coffee from Java Moose or McDonalds, and vary rarely Tims.
Im a Starbucks and Second Cup person. We already brought this idea up a little while back, if you ever are bored and want to read through some of our posts regarding Second Cup in that area.

Long story short. You have a massive housing development right on top of you. Not your average Joe living just anywhere. So that right there is a plus. For those low times like winter.
Java Moose has wonky hours that prevent it from ever being a threat to anyone. He mentioned something before about looking into the possibility of a commercial component into one of the street level townhouses.
And my god the almost quarter million cruise ship passengers alone could make the place thrive all summer long. Amongst other things...


But anyways yeah. I still think this is the best option from a revenue standpoint for both him and Second Cup

A win-win situation. :banana:

[Helladog]

Thats correct. Because I for one do not drink any coffee from Java Moose or McDonalds, and vary rarely Tims.
Im a Starbucks and Second Cup person. We already brought this idea up a little while back, if you ever are bored and want to read through some of our posts regarding Second Cup in that area.

Long story short. You have a massive housing development right on top of you. Not your average Joe living just anywhere. So that right there is a plus. For those low times like winter.
Java Moose has wonky hours that prevent it from ever being a threat to anyone. He mentioned something before about looking into the possibility of a commercial component into one of the street level townhouses.
And my god the almost quarter million cruise ship passengers alone could make the place thrive all summer long. Amongst other things...


But anyways yeah. I still think this is the best option from a revenue standpoint for both him and Second Cup

A win-win situation. :banana:

I think this would be a good component of either Peel Plaza (close to the cops :haha: ) or the coast guard site.

[Helladog]

Looks good for us...(Previous month in brackets).

-St. John's, N.L. 8.2 (8.1)
-Halifax 6.4 (6.0)
-Saint John, N.B. 5.2 (5.0)
-Saguenay, Que. 9.3 (9.8)
-Quebec 5.1 (4.8)
-Trois-Rivieres, Que. 8.6 (8.3)
-Sherbrooke, Que. 7.6 (8.5)
-Montreal 9.6 (9.6)
-Gatineau, Que. 5.8 (5.4)
-Ottawa 5.2 (6.0)
-Kingston, Ont. 6.8 (7.2)
-Toronto 10.1 (10.0)
-Hamilton 8.7 (8.2)
-Kitchener, Ont. 9.9 (9.9)
-London, Ont. 11.1 (10.9)
-Oshawa, Ont. 9.9 (9.7)
-St. Catharines-Niagara, Ont. 9.9 (10.5)
-Sudbury, Ont. 10.6 (9.8)
-Thunder Bay, Ont. 8.7 (8.5)
-Windsor, Ont. 14.8 (15.2)
-Winnipeg 5.8 (5.3)
-Regina 4.1 (3.2)
-Saskatoon 4.5 (4.7)
-Calgary 7.1 (6.9)
-Edmonton 7.3 (7.0)
-Abbotsford, B.C. 9.0 (9.0)
-Vancouver 7.3 (7.0)
-Victoria 5.7 (6.1)

[Wishblade]

Looks good for us...(Previous month in brackets).

-St. John's, N.L. 8.2 (8.1)
-Halifax 6.4 (6.0)
-Saint John, N.B. 5.2 (5.0)
-Saguenay, Que. 9.3 (9.8)
-Quebec 5.1 (4.8)
-Trois-Rivieres, Que. 8.6 (8.3)
-Sherbrooke, Que. 7.6 (8.5)
-Montreal 9.6 (9.6)
-Gatineau, Que. 5.8 (5.4)
-Ottawa 5.2 (6.0)
-Kingston, Ont. 6.8 (7.2)
-Toronto 10.1 (10.0)
-Hamilton 8.7 (8.2)
-Kitchener, Ont. 9.9 (9.9)
-London, Ont. 11.1 (10.9)
-Oshawa, Ont. 9.9 (9.7)
-St. Catharines-Niagara, Ont. 9.9 (10.5)
-Sudbury, Ont. 10.6 (9.8)
-Thunder Bay, Ont. 8.7 (8.5)
-Windsor, Ont. 14.8 (15.2)
-Winnipeg 5.8 (5.3)
-Regina 4.1 (3.2)
-Saskatoon 4.5 (4.7)
-Calgary 7.1 (6.9)
-Edmonton 7.3 (7.0)
-Abbotsford, B.C. 9.0 (9.0)
-Vancouver 7.3 (7.0)
-Victoria 5.7 (6.1)

Don't mean to state the obvious here, but good lord is Ontario and Quebec ever in rough shape.

[Helladog]

Medical program now has a name
Published Friday September 4th, 2009
Health Work at city sites making way for Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick

SANDRA DAVIS
Telegraph-Journal

SAINT JOHN - Work is underway fast and furious at both the Saint John Regional Hospital and Saint John College to accommodate Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick, which is what the province's new medical education program is called.

"This new name reflects Dalhousie's strategic direction as a Maritime-wide medical school, with the New Brunswick program as a key component," said John Steeves, associate dean, Dalhousie Medical Education New Brunswick.

"It also signals the depth of the program as we develop our research component."

The program was officially named this week.

Meanwhile, King Construction is on-site at the Regional Hospital, working on a $203,000 contract and making way for the relocation of lab records so anatomy and histology teaching labs can be built, says Chrystiane Mallaley of the provincial Department of Supply and Services.

Tenders to construct the two labs close Sept. 25, she said.

The second construction project related to the medical program is building clinical teaching space, for which tenders will close next month, she said.

The two projects represent a fraction of $50 million worth of construction at the Regional Hospital, which includes an expansion of the emergency room and building a bunker to house linear accelerators - machines used to treat cancer patients with external beam radiation.

Construction is also starting at the Saint John College building of UNBSJ, which will include renovations to accommodate administrative offices, video-conferencing classrooms, tutorial rooms and research labs. A second phase will see an addition made to the college building, which will house the Learning Resource Centre and research lab space, and will be complete by May 2011.

Renovations to the maintenance shop, which is adjacent to the Saint John College building, will create a temporary Learning Resource Centre for the first year of the program, to be ready for use by next spring. The first class students at DMNB will begin their journey toward becoming physicians next September.

In a message on DMNB's website, Steeves notes that, in years one and two of the program, all lectures will be delivered from Halifax by video conferencing to New Brunswick classrooms using state-of-the-art, full motion, high-definition video conferencing technology.

"This system for program delivery has a proven track record in medical education," he says.

"Within the next few years, New Brunswick faculty will also provide lectures from any one of our four sites to an entire class."

Over the next two years, additional teaching facilities will be constructed in Moncton, Fredericton, Miramichi and the Saint John Regional Hospital, Steeves notes and, over the next four years, four basic-science researchers will be hired.

"DMNB is not tied to any particular city - its scope is New Brunswick," he said. "Our students will complete their clerkship years based in regional hospitals in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton and the Miramichi.

"With the establishment of the DMNB campus, our students will benefit from the same quality of medical education as the learners located on the Halifax campus."

DMNB is a partnership with the New Brunswick government, the University of New Brunswick and Dalhousie's Faculty of Medicine.

The program will admit 30 students from New Brunswick annually, who will attend classes in Saint John for the first two years and will then fan out across the province to complete their clerkships in Moncton, Woodstock, Fredericton and Miramichi, as well as in Saint John.

Applications are now being accepted through the Dalhousie Medical School admissions office. General information is available at the admissions and student affairs website at: http://admissions.medicine.dal.ca

[Joe]

Queen Mary 2

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-091.jpg[/IMG]




This one is slightly tilted

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-092.jpg

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sep6-093.jpg

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-094.jpg

New on and off ramps for One Mile interchange along the throughway

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-0911.jpg

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Setp6-0912.jpg

Work along Rothesay Ave./Russel St. for One Mile Interchange

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-0914.jpg

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-0916.jpg

A shot of Stephenson Tower with the Xerox building in the background

http://i367.photobucket.com/albums/oo111/JoeSJ/NkonPictures-Sept6-0910.jpg

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Nice pics Joe, especially of the QM2.

[mylesmalley]

Now that's a boat.

[mmmatt]

Now that's a boat.

no that's a ship haha

an awesome one I must say. I passed through yesterday and was very impressed.

[Joe]

Thanks Wolkenkratzerliebhab. In the second and third pictures and you can see the Market Square expansion, the white makes it noticeable. I think the exterior is going to be bronze?

[kwajo]

From my email:

Beginning this week, our Long Wharf development team will be conducting the next stage of pre-construction work on the site. The pre-construction work involves driving foundation piles into the proposed building footprint and includes the installation of over 300 steel beams driven into the site’s sub-surfaces. The purpose of this site preparation work is to anchor the weight of the proposed building to the rock surface below.

This pre-construction work does not assume approval of the re-zoning application or the Federal Minister’s approval of the 99 year lease and land agreement. It is due diligence work to take full advantage of the remaining construction season and to prepare for further construction activities, should the Long Wharf development proceed. We will continue to work closely with community stakeholders, including the Saint John Port Authority (SJPA) and the City, in order to complete the approval processes in place.

The Long Wharf Development team would like to thank the SJPA and the City for their support with regards to proceeding with this pre-construction activity as all parties work to finalize the project’s land agreement. We would also like to acknowledge and thank Saint John MP Rodney Weston for his continued support of the project as we finalize the 99 year lease agreement for the Long Wharf property.

As a reference, please find attached a media advisory we issued today regarding this work. We look forward to keeping you updated as our plans for the revitalization of Long Wharf progress. For more information on the project, please visit www.longwharf.ca.